Encouraging Self-Esteem in Loved Ones

Self-esteem plays a big part in your loved one’s recovery. After all, high self-esteem will help your loved one to:

Act independently and responsibly

Take pride in his/her accomplishments

Attempt new tasks and challenges

Better handle positive and negative emotions

And more…

Conversely, low self-esteem can prevent your loved one from working toward personal recovery goals and can even lead to relapse, if your loved one feels so badly about himself that he gives up and starts drinking or drugging again.

You can play a positive part in helping your loved one build or rebuild his or her self-esteem. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

Exercise with your loved one. Whether you go for a morning walk together or sign up for a yoga class, this will help encourage self-care, which is key to self-esteem.

Help your loved one find a hobby. Whether writing a poem, playing a musical instrument, or going for a hike, identifying an enjoyable hobby/activity is the perfect way to help your loved one feel more confident and happy.

Laugh with your loved one and encourage him to laugh at himself. People who take themselves very seriously are undoubtedly decreasing their enjoyment in life. A good sense of humor and the ability to make light of life are important ingredients for handling the ups and downs of sobriety.

Remind him that mistakes are okay. Especially when you go outside your comfort zone, you’re bound to stumble along the way.

Healing Families at Christian RehabIf you or someone you care about is caught in the bondage of drugs or alcoholism, Christian Rehab Network can help. We help families to find faith-based drug rehab programs based in Biblical truth. To learn more, call today: 877-310-9545.